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Daily dose of style, tips and adviceMon, 02 Mar 2015 13:56:36 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=4.1Autumn-Winter 2013 Trendshttp://www.frenchtruckers.com/autumn-winter-2013-trends/
http://www.frenchtruckers.com/autumn-winter-2013-trends/#commentsTue, 10 Sep 2013 20:12:48 +0000http://www.frenchtruckers.com/?p=36699Fashion trends are continuously renewing, with designers sometimes simply “pouring new wine into old bottles”… OK, so that might be the obvious thing to say when starting an article about new trends, but it’s true! And it happens season upon season upon season. Don’t be surprised to see styles you have already seen year after... Lire la suite

]]>Fashion trends are continuously renewing, with designers sometimes simply “pouring new wine into old bottles”… OK, so that might be the obvious thing to say when starting an article about new trends, but it’s true! And it happens season upon season upon season. Don’t be surprised to see styles you have already seen year after year. For autumn-winter 2013, vintage will remain omnipresent: lumberjack, hunter, military – the sorts of inspirations we are used to seeing every time the cold season sets in. These looks will begin to explore fresh territory this year. Moreover, we can announce the end of 2013 is going to be trashy, kitsch, glam and many other quirky things too. Get prepared for a messy season!

The Style

Highlander

The Scottish Highlands will bring a countryside-chic inspiration to this season’s trends. Hunting jackets, quilted jackets and duffle coats will be key pieces to be seen in once the temperatures begin to fall. Trousers and blazers will sport the traditional plaid pattern and should be combined with heavy knitwear pieces (such as turtlenecks). All these garments will come in khaki/camel/olive tones – classic hunting/fishing style!

Baroque

A baroque look inspired by luxury is all set to emerge this season. On the programme: embroidery and gilding incorporated into contemporary garments like sweatshirts or jogging bottoms. Expect too to see many quirky prints on t-shirts and trousers. Garments will be both loose and fitted, with classic pieces mixed together with sportswear. Looks will be military-inspired, with garments based on mid 20th-century uniforms.

Urban sportswear

Sportswear has been under the spotlight for a few seasons now. This time around, this well-established trend will combine activewear and chic. Up till now the look has been dominated by themes inspired by nature, but it is about to head towards something way more urban. The colour palette will be tinged with black and touches of bright colours such as canary-yellow and electric blue. Futuristic themes will also emerge through metallic and silver tones, with more classic burgundy shades appearing too. Key pieces – parkas, sweatshirts, windrunners, and most of all the varsity jacket – will be teamed with minimalist trainers and fitted classic trousers.

Tribal Lumberjack

Fringes, authentic prints, sheepskin… The long-established lumberjack is about to be inspired by Native American themes. Sitting somewhere between mountain cowboy and Canadian lumberjack, this season’s leading pieces will be sheepskin, suede and fur jackets. Corduroy will be everywhere as a great alternative to jeans. For feet the options will be plentiful: from authentic loafers to a good old pair of woodcutter boots (axe not included).

Glam revival

As well as all those 100% glitter jackets and gemstone-embedded trousers which adorned the AW13 runways, glam rock-inspired trends are set to be big this season. The rules: be inspired by the New York Dolls or Bowie – but don’t copy them. Animal prints like leopard and zebra, now becoming acceptable for men as well as for women, are to be used sparingly. Expect to see studded denim jackets, jersey t-shirts and striped blazers as well. Do your best to keep this look chic, perhaps by using velvet, and stick to sober colours such as grey and burgundy. For a more rock-inspired look, team denim with your favourite biker jacket, patterned shirt and classic boots.

Military

Following on from last season, the military look will remain present this year. The trend will be embodied by aviator pieces (e.g. bomber leather jackets), long belted coats and cargo pants in khaki or olive. More classic garments such as short, olive-coloured coats with officer collars and reefer jackets will also form part of the military look. To avoid a full-on “camo” look, combine military pieces with accessories such as ties, pocket hankies and bags then mix the outfit up with coloured chino pants.

Cuts

Strong outlines and loose cuts are terms that are reserved for haute couture. In real life, coats become either longer or shorter (there is no happy medium). Skinny jeans are living their last days of glory, and you can now wear straight cuts without being the out-of-date guy. Regardless of your inspiration, cuts get looser on the top and stay slim on the bottom.

Colors and fabrics

Colours and fabrics will be widely developed this season. Nothing is ever a real novelty, but autumn-winter 2013 will show matching like we have never seen it before. Warm colours appear every time the cold season begins, and this year is no exception. As for patterns, these will be like night and day, sometimes futuristic, sometimes vintage. Let’s get a closer look:

Colors

Full black

Black is THE colour of the season. Don’t worry, black doesn’t have to be boring! If you play around with different fabrics such as leather, wool, nylon, satin and velvet you will find plenty of pieces that fit in with the black trend perfectly.

Wintery tones
Winter usually requires wearing warmer colors, but this season will offer a more varied palette: greens (bottle, emerald, forest), browns (ranging from camel to rust, orangey tones even) and reds (brick and burgundy). Burgundy is set to be a real trend this season, and will be found on many clothes from suits through to sweaters.

Light brown
Tan will be a key colour this autumn. Chic and timeless, this classic colour will be appear on many men’s garments including leather jackets, blazers, corduroy trousers, shoes and coats.

Orange please

Designers have seen a lot of life in orange for autumn-winter 2013. This colour will be found on sweaters, parkas, and even coats from the runways down to ready-to-wear brands. Be discreet though, the last thing you want to do is look like…an orange.

Prints

Autumn-winter 2013 will be bursting with prints, ranging from the traditional plaid to leopard print. Let’s have a look at what’s to be found in this year’s collections:

Animal

Animal prints will be everywhere this season. Leopard, zebra and other exotic animal designs will mainly be found on jackets, t-shirts and accessories – use with precaution!

Camouflage

Camouflage has stood the test of time. Still very present this year, camouflage will appear in its many different guises on trainers, bags, trousers and jackets

Plaid

Another key pattern, Scottish check or “plaid” will bring an oh-so British touch to our outfits this year, whether it be on blazers or trousers. Expect too to see other types of check such as houndstooth which can be worn on blazers (worn as separates – you don’t want people reaching for their sunglasses when they see you).

Geometric

Squares, crosses, circles and triangles – all types of geometry will stand out this season. Whether they appear as large graphics on the chest that say “There’s only one Bermuda Triangle: me!”, or as full patterns.

Fabrics

Velvet

Soft and elegant as ever, velvet will make a great comeback in all different shapes and sizes this season – bringing with it all of its romantic qualities. Velvet will be seen on a range of different garments such as jackets and trousers, with the colour burgundy set to dominate.

Leather
It may be the most striking trend this season, espacially smooth and black leather.

Wool

Scotland and wool go hand in hand, not only for the clothes on your back but also for the blanket you drape over your feet while you watch TV.

Key pieces

Bomber jackets

The bomber jacket is about to become the most popular it has been for the last 5-10 years. All brands have created their own version of this military-inspired aviation jacket, some in leather, some in wool, some patterned, some not. The choice is yours!

Varsities

Varsity jackets continue to rock menswear collections. This year they have faded in colour and gained a darker, more minimalist spirit.

Biker jackets

Obviously, if you don’t have a leather jacket yet, this is time to get one. The Perfecto’s lovers won’t be disappointed a bit! We’ve already spotted few interesting pieces on lookbooks: from the belted “Tony Ramone” to the Rick Owens designer style.

Long coats

Long coats keep disappearing and re-emerging from winter trends, and this year you can count them in! This type of coat is better adapted to tall people, and will be available in various shapes and colours this year. Long coats could fit for creating a casual look, teamed with a cable stitch sweater, and also can be worn more elegantly over a suit. Cuts will vary from loose to more fitted, and they will sometimes be belted as well.

A massive scarf

This season’s scarves will be massive. Take note, enthusiasts!

The good old cap

The newsboy, or Parisian Kid (we call them “Titi” in France) cap is back for the autumn-winter 2013 season, ready to keep our heads warm in style during cold winter nights. It will often appear in tweed or check designs. Don’t go too mad with the vintage inspiration, please – you can leave out the braces, henleys and wool trousers…

Backpacks (again)

Don’t have a backpack yet? There has never been more choice than right now, with all styles, shapes and fabrics available. It’s the perfect time to get yourself a new one!

]]>http://www.frenchtruckers.com/autumn-winter-2013-trends/feed/0Spring-Summer 2013 trendshttp://www.frenchtruckers.com/spring-summer-2013-trends/
http://www.frenchtruckers.com/spring-summer-2013-trends/#commentsFri, 08 Mar 2013 12:27:11 +0000http://www.frenchtruckers.com/?p=33215You are now used to follow season after season our trend review. This is the result of many meetings on tradeshows with brands, dissecting many catalogues to finally propose a review of the most emerging trends for the season. Let me say straightaway, this summer will spread a bunch of colors in your wardrobe! Style... Lire la suite

]]>You are now used to follow season after season our trend review. This is the result of many meetings on tradeshows with brands, dissecting many catalogues to finally propose a review of the most emerging trends for the season. Let me say straightaway, this summer will spread a bunch of colors in your wardrobe!

Style

Gatsby

If we were to nominate movies which have inspired all male fashion trends since their release, « The great Gatsby » would most certainly be one of them. Year after year, the Robert Redford sophisticated chic look seems to come back every summer. Light beige or brown shaded suits and their striped navy homologues, the three-pieces alternative (which is to be gently manipulated), or club ties and double-breast blazers, are a reliable guide line we recommend for next season (the american traditionnal preppy style could be a fair interpretation of it, though probably more colourful and modern than its elder).

Marine

Again and again, the marine style is under the spotlight this sping-summer 2013 season. Many brands will use horizontal stripes in their creations and propose their own version of the traditional Breton top (the French call “marinière”). Waterproof jackets will also invade the shop shelves, findable in many shapes: trench-coats, oilskins, windrunners and parkas in basic colors (navy, red, yellow). Boat shoes will also be presented in many colorways and shapes. In a wider image, this trend is to be taken in a sportswear spirit.

Sportswear chic

At the crossroads of preppy, marine and workwear is located sportswear chic. A trend towards which converge all the other. Tinged with bright colors, embodied by blazers, chinos, fine knitwear, loafers, white sneakers, sandals along with lightweight scarves. An hybrid look to take in the broad sense. For that matter, carefull not to “drift” into a “sunday golfer”, “holiday daddy” or “well-bred guy” look.

Total denim

Denim is most certainly the favourite fabric of real men! If the use of such a material remains inbued with tradition, it is still a great source of creativity for designers. So, the spring announces again many denim pieces, lighter, and worn in “total denim” outfits. For most of the time, specialists denim brands will use those in unmatched outfits, sometimes puttin together bright jackets and black jeans, or selections of raw tone-on-tone jackets and trousers.

Cuts

Noticeable thing: many creators, which most of them are Scandinavian, propose loose silhouettes this season. With longer and wider shorts (looking a bit like Japanese kimonos), very loose t-shirts and straight cutted trousers. We would use them sparingly.

Most of the time, cuts remains fitted for blazers, trousers we would also find shorter than usual.

Colors

Bright

Spring is the season when plants flower again, sun reappears, faces regain colors. Just like this season’s trends actually, which will offer an explosion of color. Mostly thanks an omnipresent preppy vibe which has been surrounding menswear fashion for a decade now. This necessarily comes with flashy colors. The rainbow will take over our whole wardrobe with electric blues, canary-yellow, scarlet-reds, oranges, emerald greens and even pinks.

BLACK & WHITE

In contrast with such a colorful trend, maybe influenced by Hedi Slimane’s joining Saint-Laurent, stands out a black and white trend we would find on basics: leather jackets, formal trousers and of course the ever white shirt.

Natural

In minority, some pieces will come in very natural shades, like washed out with time. At least these would be colorful, a great match with brighter pieces for all of our spring outfits.

Prints

The spring-summer 2013 season would see plenty of new prints coming out, following the trend of these last three years. Well, it may be sure we won’t wear crazy prints every day, but it still cheers up an outfit. Because most of time they mix different colors, enlightening a silhouette. Few brands even dared trying mixing up totally diffrent prints, but less to say is that’s a bit risky.

Flowers

The flower print trend came back in the early days of spring 2012. It’s under the spotlight this year. Careful, the “Magnum-hawaïan-shirted-look” is not coming back, but really something neater: tucked into pants shirt with a denim jacket. Yes, shirts will better sport this kind of print.

CAMOUFLAGE

Once again, following with last year, the camouflage pattern will be central in 2013. Here, no military looks but again cleaner outfits and a print to use by little touches. It would be proposed on many mi-season jackets, t-shirts and few shorts.

Geometric

Squaer, line, circle, triangles will adorn many menswear pieces like shirts, t-shirts and even trousers.

materials

As for materials, cotton will predominate this season, in all of its shapes and on any available support. In addition to that, flannel will also be used for mid-season pieces, and many technical materials for sportswear clothes: nylon for jackets or jersey for t-shirts for example.

Key pieces

Raincoat

A very light coat, in waxed cotton or nylon, waterproof to protect from the rain. Those who’ve been planning to get one for a long time would find a wide choice this season, and it’ll be available under may shapes: single-breasted trench-coats for most elegant outfits, or traditional breton oilskin for most casual ones.

Safari jacket

The safari jacket was an Africa inspired piece Yves Saint-Laurent made popular in his spring-summer 1966 collection. This item, halfway between a jacket and a cotton shirt, has many flat pockets on the front and is always fitted at the waist. The safari jacket is back guys! Especially from many French brands revisiting it their own way, in colored and patterned version.

Aviator jacket

The bomber jacket was traditionally worn by the U.S Air Force soldiers. Landed during the 1950s, it has taken over years an important place in our wardrobe, mostly from lower class people. The jacket has snug cuffs and waist, it is basically made of nylon and lined in orange. This year it is proposed in various materials (wool, classic nylon, cotton) and casual, military or sportswear styles (varsity)

Double breasted jacket

Preppy is always attached to the double breasted jacket! Incidentally it will invade shop’s shelves this season. This piece has proved its elegance over the years. To wear it, the best thing to do is betting on soberness, in basic colorways: navy, grey, Prince of Wales… The boldest of you could try wearing it with bright trousers, the most chic could keep it classic with matching trousers and a fine pair of double monk shoes.

Loose knitted sweaters

A real trend actually. Many mid-season sweaters, cardigans will be loose knitted, sometimes even leaving the shirt appear. Most of the time, the use of a fine material would give a “ethereal” render. These sweaters could be found in graphic versions, but in general designers have kept them simple: rounded collar and plain color.

Printed sweatshirt

Sportswear has deeply invaded our wardrobes since last summer, especially sweatshirts which made a great come back (while we though they died at the end of the 1990s). Here it is, coming in every kind of color and pattern (even the quirkiest ones).

Striped t-shirt

The traditional sailor “breton” t-shirt is a great classic, no need to make presentations here. This year it would come in its original shape, in revisited versions as well, with a wide variation of details. It would greatly match sportswear raincoats in “total” outfits or we could think about something more elegant with formal trousers and derbies.

Pleated trousers

Are chinos dead? Or maybe people can’t stand them anymore? The fact remains that brands went easier on it this year, leaving its ever enemy coming back, more chic. In casual outfits, sneakers could be tried, as they remains sober. In some more formal occasions, a different colored jacket could be an idea. As for bright colors, many brand dared a little quirkiness this season, this must be a slippery way.

Pleated shorts

As it is for trousers, shorts will also have their pleated versions, but this trend remains minor.

Shorter shorts

It started last year, shorts are getting shorter, over the knees.

Running shoes

These times running sneakers are on the roll. Vintage as contemporary, they matches everything and offer a great choice of colors, which many are not the best taste, so if you feel like trying something risky, keep it simple: no socks and chinos.

]]>http://www.frenchtruckers.com/spring-summer-2013-trends/feed/0Autumn-winter 2012 trendshttp://www.frenchtruckers.com/autumn-winter-2012-trends/
http://www.frenchtruckers.com/autumn-winter-2012-trends/#commentsFri, 14 Sep 2012 13:49:08 +0000http://www.frenchtruckers.com/?p=30297When a new season begins, we like to focus on menswear trends we consider relevant, in the very concrete way we are going to dress over the next few month. Checking lookbooks, chatting with professionals and seeing new collections on tradeshows we “build” this trendbook. Actually it is kind of an exhaustive guide about what... Lire la suite

]]>When a new season begins, we like to focus on menswear trends we consider relevant, in the very concrete way we are going to dress over the next few month. Checking lookbooks, chatting with professionals and seeing new collections on tradeshows we “build” this trendbook. Actually it is kind of an exhaustive guide about what is to be taken of left in this season’s collections. Compared to autumn-winter 2011, many changes are initiated to something more chic and focused on menswear basics, which are declined in a very original color palette this year:

Style

Neo-retro elegance

The past few seasons were marked by the “unshaved adventurer”, the “sportswear chic” or the “unkempt hip”. This year the show is being stolen by elegance’s coming back under the spotlight. An authentic elegance, highly inspired from the 19th century. Not much to say that: trousers’ cuts are getting wider, coats longer, fits are basically taking a vintage turn, but with modern “flowing” shapes. Accessories are “classically elegant” : all kind of hats, ties, and gloves. Shades remain actual : we will have variations of yellow, red and blue. We would also keep the preppy vibe alive, wearing double breasted jackets and coats along with waistcoats. Trends of this year are definitely tinged with romanticism (lightweight scarves, pinkish shades), then also influenced by classic British fashion (the good old Prince of Wales check). Finally, big news for us guys, let’s take the comb and hair gel out again ! (not a joke, read that in a hair styling trends article)

City biker

Obviously our “unshaved adventurer” style will remain present, in background of the City biker. Please, no misunderstanding, we won’t tell you about the total leather look with an embroidered eagle on the back and a pair of cowboy boots, but an aviator/biker jacket, raw jeans and boots (desert boots according to your taste). Denim is a key trend this season, particularly its iconic pieces like the trucker jacket, which we will find with various adornments : smooth leather, suede, raw or stonewashed denim, with or without fur. Aviator, biker jackets (“perfecto” as we like to call it in French), would sport basic colors (browns, black) like more unusual ones (bordeaux). Besides, shoes won’t necessarily be classic boots, as the hiking boots trend is reaching maturity this year. And hats won’t necessarily be helmets, just a fisherman beanie to give a hybrid “urban-adventurer” look. Real bikers would cut their jacket’s fringe seeing that!

Sportswear

Urban sportswear keeps growing and establishes as a real trend in continuation of the summer. If we put tracksuits aside – although city has become a better place to wear sweatpants than trackfields with slimmer cuts – sportswear is generally associated to the traditionnal american student outfit: varsity, jeans, sneakers and baseball hat (I know it is a narrow European vision). Not anymore thanks to pieces from different styles enriching this year’s sportswear inspiration. Then parkas, chinos, beanies would match our sneakers to give some half “fisherman”, half sportswear looks. Varsities will be adapted in various colors and materials (suede, cotton, leather), many prints would trim sweatshirts guts and baseball hats would return to their original shape (neither for 5 panels nor fitted New Era).

Unless for white linen cropped pants or camouflage fatigues, menswear trends are usually considered as timeless, so this season can not be limited to those three styles. Therefore past ones remain actual but less prominent. We can also mention: tribal, animal, camo prints, preppy and military style.

Colors

For once, autumn-winter shows colors to their best advantage. In spite of the daily grind, and the ever-present black around you, the color palette allows us imagine warming up near a chimney (precociously I’ll give you that). No monochromatic looks this year, but mismatched clothing mixing sober and quirkier colors, and plenty of bi-tones pieces:

Yellowish

Banana, buff, corn, mustard, sand, straw… yellow! We won’t fool yourself telling you will see it everywhere, but it is time or never to go for yellows (I know we already said that for the summer…). Yellow is quite a warm color, really. Why do you think that tempratures are high when the weather is sunny? It may be stylish on cords trousers for example… think about it. ;)

Reddish

We won’t play the trendy color variation game, promised. Red tones are fashionable. Bordeaux would tinge our coats (leather like wool), sometimes our trousers wich will also come in paler reds. We could also see some bright red… I am quite fed up with it, aren’t you?

“Eggplantish”

Here is a color you won’t come across everyday, but it may be interesting trying it, again, on cord trousers, on a cardigan, mixed with a blue color set.

Blueish

Yet you thought we would all dress up like clowns this year! But such colors couldn’t have come without more sober ones. This winter you could definitely bet on blue, night-blue actually. It would easily match all previously mentionned colors, then also other blues… However, you’ll certainly see this one on every street corner ;)Let’s also mention electric blue seen on many trousers.

Patterns

It is plain to see that winter won’t be very original regarding patterns. We’ll have to juggle with timeless (although horizontal stripes trend seems to wane) and actual patterns this year:

Fair isle

Fair isle, this regular geometric pattern is a classic. 3 winters now that our knitted clothes sport it, and one more now!

Prince of Wales

A woolen checked fabric, British by essence. It looks like it has always existed, coming and going incessantly into menswear trends. One could consider it as timeless, exclusively for people of a certain age or for confident with a distinctive style. Some would only dare the woolen cap, the most hotheaded would try the classic suit (even three-pieces), or trousers their own with a colored top.

Materials

Again, nothing very original in what materials are used this season, nothing straightly coming from the future, but many bi-materials. We would found some on shoes (smooth leather, suede, canvas + leather etc…) or coats (with a lot of metallic details). All still remains seasonal. The leather/denim combo comes along with the “City Biker”, wool, cord, cashmere would rather suit for a more chic wardrobe and waxed cotton would add our sportswear outfits something different.

Key pieces

Baseball caps

Originally, it did not have any peak. This latter was introduced during the 20’s by a New-York Yankees baseball player to protect from the sun. In some way he made it popular. The cap usually features a team logo and was purely made for sportsmen until the fans start wearing it to support their team. This season, specialized brands are giving its original design back (pre New Era who came in the 40’s). Made of wool, canvas we would gladly wear it in our urban sportswear outfits.

Where to find it: never reveal the brand of your cap, rule number 1

Hat

Winter hats ore often complex items we fear to wear properly. This “gap” makes us considering it outdated, is such a bet too audacious? It might be a good time to go for it! Not necessarily for a sombrero as shown above (it comes from a recent collaboration between April77 and a Spanish hatsmaker, beautiful.), but something more conventional, with a classic shape: a felt hat, a woolen trilby, a bowler, the choice is wide enough to find your best fitting hat.

Where to find it: search from specialists like Borsalino, Brixton, Goorin or Stetson, no doubt on their quality.

Short coat

You might want to save your body from the misshapen, oversized silhouette wearing a very long coat with flowing sleeves. I recommend you try a short coat, as fashionable and more suited to a daily use. The best is to check at double breasted coats (peacoats then…) for which you could dare colors and bi-materials (fur or cord collar). Such a timeless item would allow some over budgeting.

Where to find it : I’ve saw some at Zara, but for quality prefer Balibaris, Bleu de Paname, Folk or Nigel Cabourn.

Leather jacket

A leather jacket is a lasting clothing piece. Because you generally dig your pockets deep for it. Or is it because you pay a certain amount that you want it to last? This year we could easily let ourselves go for the “Bad Boy” special edition, the one in which we look strong, featuring aggressive metallic finishes and the thick shearling collar, in which you could stub a fag out without burning a hole. I mean… THE biker jacket! (knuckles not included)

Where to find it: average budgets could try Scotch & Soda or All Saints.
For higher budgets I’ve seen such beautiful jackets from APC, Surface to Air, Made & Crafted.
Illimited budgets could afford designer jackets : Acne, Balmain, Dsquared, Philip Lim…

Varsities/Fleece jackets

Wearing a nice varsity without looking like a “bro” – featherbrained american football captain only talking about his Ford Mustang and his “passing” – is possible. Actually, you can do it: well-cut jeans, a pair of hi-tops and, above all, no comb into the inside pocket. Older ones could pick a sober color and match it with a shirt, younger could try something colored to show off at high school (all clichés were approved by the editor in chief :p).

Where to find it: small budget could go without leather sleeves, Asos, Topman’s are ok.
Original Penguin, Misericordia, Beu de Paname for something lasting longer.
Designers (same as leather jackets if you wann gamble

Cord pants

It is a great classic in menswear, we may already all have at least one in our wardrobe. But this year sees the colorful twist turning up guys! I would personally bet on something unusual to match with a sober top: plum, bordeaux, emerald green who would not cross the “razzmatazz” line”. 5 pocket or chino cut, the rest is up to your tastes.

Your favorite raw jeans

I know this category is for purists only, but you have to wear some weatherworn, abraded, faded jeans in a biker outfit (matter of life and death). No question to get some new unwashed jeans, please! Every one knows the recipe: pick a pair of raw jeans a wear them at least 6 month without any wash (I know, they will be ready for spring with such a rate)

Hiking boots

As the trend was last year, but it really booms today. Living in the South of France, people look at me like I am an alien wearing such shoes. 1 – they are stylish. 2 – they are comfortable. 3 – people are badly dressed.

Brogues

British gentleman, preppy outfits require a pair of brogues. Today can be played the authentic card with a leather sole, or comfort with crepe or vibram. Moreover this type of shoes is a source of interest for designers who like to revisit its classic shape, and details these times by mixing materials and colors.

Weekender bags

You wish to follow the trend, then you have two options: minimalistic looks, without anything but your pockets to carry your stuff, or a huge weekender bag (we surely want to follow the trend…). Anyway a weekender bag is still useful. Then why not enjoying the “trend” to get a nice bag wish a creative touch?

]]>http://www.frenchtruckers.com/autumn-winter-2012-trends/feed/2Spring – Summer 2012 Trendshttp://www.frenchtruckers.com/ss12-trends/
http://www.frenchtruckers.com/ss12-trends/#commentsSun, 04 Mar 2012 18:29:00 +0000http://www.frenchtruckers.com/?p=17595The winter sales have just ended and the Spring – Summer 2012 collections are already out there! This year Frenchtruckers had the opportunity to attend very exiting showrooms, discuss with Fashion designers, and review tons of lookbooks ! So I guess it’s pretty much the right time to take a closer look on the newest menswear... Lire la suite

]]>The winter sales have just ended and the Spring – Summer 2012 collections are already out there! This year Frenchtruckers had the opportunity to attend very exiting showrooms, discuss with Fashion designers, and review tons of lookbooks ! So I guess it’s pretty much the right time to take a closer look on the newest menswear trends of the next 6 months. Hallelujah! this new season is getting colorful and a strong 90’s vibe is in the air…Let’s check it out !

LOOKS

SPORTSWEAR

Sportswear has come back, it may be the biggest trend of this summer and even of the next winter. Although the ultimate seasons’ collections were more sophisticated and authentic, we’re heading this time towards a more casual and cool urban sportswear look. Put back on your old 90’s fleece-made sweatshirts especially if you still have those with the silkscreened prints of sports grounds and flowery Californian beaches!

Military

The amy look is still kicking this season, from the custom fit blazers to the camouflage parka and beige or khaki long coats. Check out APC, Ben Sherman, Edwin or Woolrich if you want to have that full army style. It can also be matched with a more workwear or preppy style.

PREPPY

It feels like the preppy trend has been out there for at least 10 seasons now! Yup, it’s kind of the case and it will continue again and again. A wide range of colors are available in a more refined fabric and softer textures such as linen, jersey and so on. Welcome back Derbies shoes, striped blazers and clubbing ties! Roll up your Chinos and please… Don’t ever try to put socks on.

TRIBAL

Screen-printed patterns from all places in the world will get big success this summer and it’s maybe time to give a fresh and exotic vibe to your look! Navajos, African tribes, and Californian surfers motifs will be the main feature of many summer collections. Pendleton is possibly the most popular reference although more and more ready-to-wear brands are onto this trend. So get ready for the sunny California season!

COLORS

SS12 is definitely getting popy, colors have set the tone: the more colorful you look, the freshest you’ll be: from the flashiest tones to plain blue, yellow, red, and orange. Enjoy yourself and get arty!

MONOCHROMIC

As wacky as it may sound, layering different tones on tones from the same color will be a challenging way to get dressed with class this summer. Don’t be too monotonous and get creative by combining different shades. Check out below the colors of the upcoming summer:

BLUE

Blue ? again ? Well, not exactly. If indigo blue remains in the spotlight such as jeans and workwear clothes, this season will see the introduction of a more flashy tone: steel blue, electric blue, primary blue and other kinds of pastel blue

YELLOW

Canary yellow is a not an easy color to wear, that’s a fact. So if you don’t feel confident of taking such a risk, you may feel more comfortable wearing lighter tones such as mustard. The tone-on-tone yellow look is not a strict necessity, so think smart and keep it cool!

OFF WHITE

White is a fresh color especially when you know you will not mess around with it. That is NOT my case… It gets dirty in no time and I’m always afraid to look like Eddie Barclay in his late life. However, when the sun is here it’s just an easy color to combine with. Still, take it easy with the full white, just saying…!

BEIGE

Matching the current trend of the army look, beige will be available in a wide variety of pieces of clothing and in many styles of fabric. Just help yourself to see what it fits!

PATTERNS

TRIBAL

Tribal patterns have been progressively appearing in some collections for quite a bit now. Taking inspiration from the Indian-American roots and from African tribes, patterns will probably make a hit this summer. It’s colorful and wacky. Still, they are to be worn with caution. You can for instance combine them with more neutral pieces of clothing. To have an idea, check out Pendleton, opening Ceremony, Penfield, Ralph Lauren Denim & Supply or ASOS and Topman.

FLOWERS

Okay I agree it may look tacky, but I’m warning you, don’t get too freaked out to find these patterns on bottoms, shorts and shirts this summer. I know this style has a strong nostalgic 90’s feel,(back when daddy would wear this kind of thing ha!). However, it can really look good when matched with plain outfits. Floral patterns add something cool to your style and enhance your laid-back attitude. Swedish Our Legacy has taken it further trading their Fair Isle for the flowers. Check out Ben Sherman also .

STRIPES

Horizontal and vertical stripes are still trendy in these Spring–Summer 2012 collections. The classic sailor shirt remains a source of inspiration for many fashion designers. Beyond the usual Breton brands, we have noticed many other sweet striped clothes as in APC, Ben Sherman, Filippa K, Junk de Luxe or Melinda Gloss.

CHECK SHIRTS

Here they are again and no one knows when this trend ever ends! Check shirts have surely become with time men’s classic pieces of garment. They are everywhere even amongst unexpected brands! Not only shirts are concerned but also all categories of clothing (including blazers and shorts). Available in many different colors, it’s going to be tricky to dodge checks this summer!

CAMOUFLAGE

Camouflage is certainly the most remarkable feature from the whole army style. This pattern can be found on shorts (APC, YMC) and shirts (Edwin) this season. Matching camouflage motifs with darker tone outfits is really advisable if you want to avoid looking like a duck hunter!

FABRICS

FLEECE

Comfortable and casual, fleece-made clothing usually makes us think of sweatshirts and jogging bottoms. The reason why we love them so much is they turn out to be really useful when we hang around at home on a lazy Sunday! Yet, Fleece fabric has seen many changes this season, moving from the classic sportswear outfit to a more urban casual style.

FINE KNIT

Thin and warm, more and more brands are getting into cotton-made fine knit clothing which is perfect for fresh summer nights!

LINEN

Chic Swagger looks are set to last this summer! Linen turns out to be a pretty good fabric to make you feel cool and elegant when the temperature is hitting high this summer. From t-shirts, to jackets and bottoms, there will be plenty of choices to enjoy yourself!

MUST HAVE

PARKAS

Watertight, soft and stylish, Parka remains in the front line of the fashion trends in this mid-season! Personally, I have been collecting parkas for a couple of years now, so I think I’m already set for 2012 :D

DADDY’ S WEATSHIRTS !

Sweatshirts are definitely THE must-have for the season, especially when it gets a little fresher on summer nights. Although sweatshirts are classic old-school pieces of clothing, they are soon going to be a hipster thing over the next months…

COLORED CHINOS

Chinos were really popular last summer and there are more to come this year in a wide range of pastel colors!

SHORT BERMUDAS

Bermudas are getting even shorter this year. Now they have a more preppy/ rock’n’roll twist which is just perfect for the beach and nice suntans!

DERBIES

If you don’t have a pair of derbies yet, it’s maybe time to start thinking about it. Classic or modern (with a coloured sole), derbies fit any style whether you like it chic or casual. Check out all these lookbooks, did you notice how models put them on without socks? What a foolish thing to do! Okay, It can be fun to pose a little with it, but you would not want to hurt your feets and damage your shoes with sweat. In real life, you shall consider using talc (and an anti-smell spray) and putting a soft pair of ankle socks on ;)

ESPADRILLE

The Espadrille is the best feature of the current fashion trends. The French and Spanish know-how continues to inspire trend setters, taking the espadrille to the next level. Available in many colors and motifs, more and more casual shoes embrace the weaving style of the espadrille so to keep it nice and fresh.

BACKPACKS

Backpacks having been making a hit for 2 seasons now. Taking roots from the workwear background, their old-school style and sweet comfort will sure be appreciated by many of us!

]]>http://www.frenchtruckers.com/ss12-trends/feed/0Fashion + Rugby : Editorialhttp://www.frenchtruckers.com/fashion-rugby-editorial/
http://www.frenchtruckers.com/fashion-rugby-editorial/#commentsMon, 24 Sep 2007 14:59:57 +0000http://www.frenchtruckers.com/wordpress/?p=118Here we go, kick off for 6 weeks of rugby! For a rugby lover like me, it’s a really important event. I will try nonetheless for these few weeks to keep on truckin’. So I’ll try (no pun intended), to dedicate a series of articles to rugby and fashion. Rugby is basically a thug’s sport... Lire la suite

Here we go, kick off for 6 weeks of rugby! For a rugby lover like me, it’s a really important event. I will try nonetheless for these few weeks to keep on truckin’. So I’ll try (no pun intended), to dedicate a series of articles to rugby and fashion.

Rugby is basically a thug’s sport played by gentleman, all about blood, sweat and tears, giving one’s all for one’s team. And today it’s still the same, but in 20 years, the men have changed, rugby’s become a professional sport, and has become more popular. We’ve had the team with the pink bow ties, Michalak’s pretty face, the Stade du France, with it’s glitter and the Kenzo kits… And not forgetting the Dieux du Stade calendar! In only a few years, rugby has become a rather glamorous affair. So much so you might almost forget that Bernard Laporte, the French coach, has recently been advertising ham (not so stylish).

This week, between matches, I will present a series of rugby-inspired articles. Which also keep an air of fashion about them. Because although this may be the Rugby World Cup, it doesn’t mean that just any old thing to do with rugby is in fashion! Wearing a supporter’s scarf, for example, outside of the ground, gets you a yellow card! Beware of fashion faux pas. Special dispensation, of course, will be given for the French kit on match days ;)